Abstract
Although friendship is vital in later life, particularly amongst people who are living with dementia, little is known about how friendships are sustained following a diagnosis. Some research suggests that, because of dementia-related stigma, friendships dissolve following diagnosis; however, other researchers have shown that friendships can persist in dementia. The purpose of this article is to explore strategies that people with dementia and their friends (i.e., those who have been friends for at least 2 years) utilize to sustain their friendships. Following a constructivist approach, we interviewed people living with dementia, friends, and family members to better understand how friendships are maintained after a diagnosis of dementia. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. An overarching theme, adapting to change, was generated. Participants adapted in several ways, including: (1) prioritizing friendship, (2) shifting ways of thinking about our friend/ship, and (3) addressing changes through practical strategies. These strategies helped maintain mutually beneficial, reciprocal friendships that were able to withstand changes that accompany a diagnosis of dementia.
Highlights
Friendship in dementia contributes to well-being, social connectedness, and quality of life (McCabe, Robertson, & Kelly, 2018); people who have been diagnosed with dementia are at increased risk of social isolation (National Seniors Council, 2014)
Despite the importance of social support and social engagement for people living with dementia, little is known about how friendships are maintained after a diagnosis
This epistemology was best suited for this research because it led to insight into how people living with dementia, their friends, and in some cases, their family members, make sense of their experiences of friendship
Summary
Friendship in dementia contributes to well-being, social connectedness, and quality of life (McCabe, Robertson, & Kelly, 2018); people who have been diagnosed with dementia are at increased risk of social isolation (National Seniors Council, 2014). This elevated risk is caused, in part, by the stigma that accompanies the diagnosis, and results in the loss of social connections (Harris, 2011, 2013; McCabe et al, 2018). MacRae (2011) argues that with sufficient support and resources, people living with dementia can continue to lead meaningful and purposeful lives. The purpose of this article is to explore the strategies that people living with dementia and their friends draw upon to sustain such a friendship
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